BMJ : British medical journal
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To review the efficacy of pharmacological prevention of serious reactions to iodinated contrast media. ⋯ Life threatening anaphylactic reactions due to iodinated contrast media are rare. In unselected patients, the usefulness of premedication is doubtful, as a large number of patients need to receive premedication to prevent one potentially serious reaction. Data supporting the use of premedication in patients with a history of allergic reactions are lacking. Physicians who are dealing with these patients should not rely on the efficacy of premedication.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study
A randomised controlled trial of acupuncture care for persistent low back pain: cost effectiveness analysis.
To evaluate the cost effectiveness of acupuncture in the management of persistent non-specific low back pain. ⋯ A short course of traditional acupuncture for persistent non-specific low back pain in primary care confers a modest health benefit for minor extra cost to the NHS compared with usual care. Acupuncture care for low back pain seems to be cost effective in the longer term.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Comparative Study
Randomised controlled trial of a short course of traditional acupuncture compared with usual care for persistent non-specific low back pain.
To determine whether a short course of traditional acupuncture improves longer term outcomes for patients with persistent non-specific low back pain in primary care. ⋯ Weak evidence was found of an effect of acupuncture on persistent non-specific low back pain at 12 months, but stronger evidence of a small benefit at 24 months. Referral to a qualified traditional acupuncturist for a short course of treatment seems safe and acceptable to patients with low back pain.